Development of lettuce changes in the function of alternative substrates

Abstract

This work had the objective of evaluating the effect of the addition of chicken litter and bovine manure to the coconut fiber in the formulation of a substrate for the production of Lucy Brown American lettuce seedlings. The experiment was conducted in the municipality of Mossâmedes-GO, from October 2016 to November 2016. The cultivation was conducted in a greenhouse covered with translucent LDPE. The experiment was performed in a completely randomized design, with seven treatments of substrates (100% FC, 90% FC + 10% EB, 80% FC + 20% EB, 60% FC + 40% EB, 90% FC + 10% CF 80% FC + 20% CF, 60% FC + 40% CF) and 40 replicates. Physical and chemical analysis of seven substrates were performed. The percentage of germination was evaluated; The mass of the root system and aerial part at the time of transplanting. It was concluded that: pure coconut fiber without fertigation is not feasible for the production of lettuce seedlings; The substrates formulated with 80% coconut fiber + 20% tanned bovine manure and 60% coconut fiber + 40% tanned bovine manure are suitable for production of lettuce seedlings; The chicken bed showed to be a very saline material, even tanned, compromising the germination and development of the seedlings.